I thought I’d update this info.
The AMCAS held its annual meeting this past week and the #1 topic of discussion was the implementation of these new rules changes.
Things you’re probably going to see for the next application cycle:
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HUGE expansion of binding early decision programs (EDP). It’s being suggested that as much as 25-50% of a med school’s class may come thru EDP.
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contractually binding LOI (letters of intent). Some schools are talking about requiring applicants to sign a binding matriculation contract upon acceptance or within a limited specified time (few days/few weeks) of receiving an acceptance. Applicants who sign the binding contract will be exempt from the next item…
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a requirement to pay a large non-refundable deposit on or immediately after the April 30 decision date to hold your place. Potentially as much as the full tuition for the first term of med school. Georgetown already requires a $500+ deposit payable on April 30. Expect most/all schools to follow suit.
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one other possibility–a return by some schools to an individual school-specific application process so none of the AMCAS traffic rules apply. (Which means LOTS more paperwork for applicants.)
Stay tuned…